The legendary rivalry of Barcelona vs. Real Madrid delivered another unforgettable chapter in football history. The 2025 Copa del Rey final gave fans a classic El Clásico—full of high stakes, skill, and late drama. Let’s break down how Barcelona edged their biggest rivals to claim a record 32nd Spanish Cup.

Copa del Rey Final: A Match to Remember

On April 26, 2025, football fans around the world turned their eyes to Estadio Olímpico de la Cartuja in Seville. Barcelona and Real Madrid faced off, both seeking silverware and the bragging rights of Spain’s fiercest contest.

The Barcelona vs. Real Madrid final was packed with drama. Barcelona took an early lead through Pedri’s spectacular curling shot in the first half. Real Madrid, however, responded with determination. Super-sub Kylian Mbappé found the equalizer with a superb free-kick in the 70th minute, and just seven minutes later, Aurélien Tchouaméni gave Madrid the lead with a towering header.

But Barça were not finished. Ferran Torres leveled the match in the 84th minute, pushing the final into extra time. With penalties looming, defender Jules Koundé stepped up, scoring an incredible 116th-minute winner from outside the box. His goal sealed a dramatic 3-2 victory for Barcelona, ensuring their place in history and extending their record in the Spanish Cup.

Key Moments and Tactical Masterclass

The Barcelona vs. Real Madrid final was a showcase of tactical shifts and individual brilliance. Barcelona dominated possession in the first half, but Madrid’s substitutions and pressing made a big impact after the break. The last-gasp heroics from Koundé stunned Madrid’s defense and left fans breathless.

Antonio Rüdiger’s red card and the heated atmosphere added spice to the contest. Both teams brought intensity and passion, creating a match that truly lived up to the El Clásico billing. For a detailed breakdown of the final’s tactical twists and player performances, visit The Athletic’s live blog for minute-by-minute insights.

Barcelona’s Triumph and Madrid’s Road to the Final

With this victory, Barcelona not only lifted the Copa del Rey for a historic 32nd time, they also kept alive dreams of a treble this season. Their consistency throughout the year has placed them four points ahead of Madrid in La Liga and given them strong momentum for the Champions League.

Real Madrid’s journey to the final was equally impressive. Their run to Seville featured comeback wins and star power. But in the crucial moments of the final, they fell just short. Madrid’s squad, led by coach Carlo Ancelotti, will now need to regroup in search of new hardware next season.

What’s Next After El Clásico?

Barcelona’s Copa del Rey win over Real Madrid puts them on course for potential domestic and European glory. Their young stars stood tall on the big stage, signaling a bright future for the club. Meanwhile, Madrid will look to bounce back from the disappointment and refocus on La Liga and their upcoming challenges.

For fans of Spanish football and global rivalries, this Barcelona vs. Real Madrid classic was a reminder of the passion and unpredictability of the beautiful game. The world will be watching as both teams chase more success in the months ahead.

Want to dive deeper into each team’s tactics and the full match report? Check out the ESPN post-match analysis for expert insights and player ratings.